Are you flying off for a long holiday and leaving your car in storage? Well, proper preparation is key to keeping it in running condition for when you get back. Thankfully, with a little planning and care, you can leave your car without worrying. Here’s how to store your car properly so it’s ready to hit the road when you are.
Tips to Store Your Car Safely
If you don’t take steps to store your car safely, you may return to a car plagued with problems like a dead battery, flat tyres, or even engine damage. Follow along as we share tips for storing your car safely.
Clean and Cover Your Car
It’s important to clean your car before storing it for an extended period, give it a thorough wash and wax. Even if you have indoor storage, dirt, debris, and bird droppings can corrode the paint if left untouched.
Once clean, cover your car with a breathable, weather-resistant car cover to prevent moisture build-up and protect it from dust or scratches.
Maintain the Battery
A car battery can lose charge if it’s not used for a while. To keep your battery charged, use a trickle charger to maintain the charge and avoid damage to your battery. Alternatively, disconnect the battery if you won’t be using the car for several weeks.
Prevent Fuel Issues
It’s best to fill up your fuel tank before storing your car to avoid condensation forming inside. Adding a fuel stabiliser can also prevent the fuel from degrading, ensuring your engine starts smoothly when you’re back.
Change the Engine Oil
Old engine oil can contain contaminants that damage your engine over time if your car isn’t running. If you’re preparing your car for long-term storage, consider changing the oil and filter to keep your engine in top condition.
Avoid Flat Tyres
Tyres can develop flat spots if your car sits in one position for too long. To prevent flat tyres, inflate them to the recommended pressure – you can find this in your car manual or inside the driver’s door. If you’re storing your car for several months, use jack stands to take the load off the tyres.
Protect Against Moisture
Moisture can wreak havoc on your car’s interior and mechanical systems. Ensure all windows are tightly closed and place silica gel packs or dehumidifiers inside the car to absorb excess moisture.
Don’t Use the Parking Brake
Leaving your hand brake engaged for a long time can cause the brake pads to stick to the rotors. This is called brake binding or seizing and is caused by the rotors rusting. Instead, use wheel chocks to keep your car from rolling.
Additional Tips for Storing Your Car
- Storage Facilities: Your responsibility as the car owner is to store your car safely. If you don’t have a secure garage, consider using professional, safe storage facilities rather than leaving it outdoors.
- Keep the Car Covered: Even in a garage, a high-quality car cover can protect your car from dust and potential scratches.
- Start Your Car: If possible, get someone you trust to start your car every few weeks to keep it in running condition.
Why Car Insurance Matters Even When Your Car Is Stationary
It’s easy to assume that your car is safe while sitting idle, but the reality is that unexpected events can happen at any time. Even in storage, your car is vulnerable to risks like theft, vandalism, fire, or natural disasters.
You could face significant repair or replacement costs without adequate insurance, even if your car hasn’t moved an inch. Ensuring your car is covered with the right policy gives you peace of mind, knowing you’re financially secure while away.
Consider Your Car’s License Disk and Paperwork
Don’t forget about its documentation when preparing your car for long-term storage. Ensure your car’s licence disk is up-to-date, and keep a copy of the necessary paperwork, like your insurance details, in a secure but accessible location.
This is especially important if someone else might need to move or access the car in your absence. Staying on top of your car’s administrative needs can save you from unexpected fines or complications when you’re ready to use it again.
Get Car Insurance That Cares
While you prepare your car for long-term storage, make sure you’ve also considered insurance that covers your needs. Look for an affordable car insurance option to meet your needs. You can get a quick, obligation-free online quote to see what your car insurance will be.
Disclaimer
The article aims to provide South African motorists with information about how to store their cars safely. However, it’s not a complete list, so always do your independent research.
Please get professional financial advice from a certified financial advisor to ensure you select the appropriate financial services product.